Under 16A 2012/13 Division 2 Match Reports

League away to Passage United on Tuesday 14th May 2013 Passage United 0 Midleton 2 This was to be our last fixture in the U16 Division 2 league 2012/13 campaign against Passage Utd, and we ended the season with a deserved victory. In the early exchanges Passage, with home advantage and plenty of support, huffed and puffed but our defense was strong and focused, with the central pair of Finnian Murphy & Cian Savage taking charge with the support of Tadgh Gilroy and Liam Cotter. There has been a marked improvement in our work rate and organisation compared to earlier games in the season, and notably the positioning of Pa Horgan in midfield has worked effectively playing along side the consistent presence and leadership of Max O'Neill, with Conor O'Sullivan from the U15A squad who was called up on the eleventh hour and his contribution to the team was also significant, his fitness proving that he was well capable of competing at this level. Kevin O'Hanlon & Cian McNerney worked their socks off from start to finish but Man of the Match, Jack Farmer once again produced the goods scoring on thirty five minutes and setting up Kevin to score the second of the game with a terrific cross fifteen minutes into the second half.

With twenty minutes to go John Ogunjemilusi replaced Tadgh bringing in fresh legs to a busy area of the park. Joe had only to save one or two shots on goal throughout this game but its undeniable that his role in the team this season has been immense. A solid performance today, showing good attitude and strong character by U16 Midleton A team, Well done each and every one of you.

League at home to Macroom on Saturday 20th April 2013 Midleton 2 Macroom 2 This league fixture was to indicate Midleton's progression to date as Division two league leaders Macroom were welcomed to Knockgriffin. Having lost the away fixture earlier in the year we were determined to make amends and with an almost full squad available we were never more prepared. During the first ten minutes of play we seemed anxious and unable to settle with the visitors displaying composure but without any major threat on goal. On fifteen minutes a back pass by our defender and a momentary lapse in concentration when our keeper picked up the ball resulted in a free kick in our eighteen yard area. Try as we might but Macroom drill the ball into the roof of the net scoring the opener. From then on our play was more focused and we began to dominate in all areas of pitch. Jack Farmer has plenty of ability and going it alone he worked his way in front of goal only to be fouled by the keeper. Having earned the penalty kick and with this opportunity to get back into the game, Jack, as cool as a breeze, stepped up to slot home a text book kick to level proceedings.

We continued to dominate with Finnian Murphy and Cian Savage solid in defense limiting the visitors to an occasional glimpse of goal. The relentless attacking from Midleton had Macroom conceding corner after corner and we knew that it would only be a matter of time we we would score again. This opportunity came fifteen minutes into the second half when the ball bounced in the penalty area in front of Pa Horgan and he blasted the ball into the back of the net. Midleton two - one up. Midleton kept up the pressure for the remainder of the game but we were guilty of wasting chances too. Then two minutes from time having been on top for so long Macroom made a final attack and we failed to clear the danger decisively allowing the Macroom play maker to level up scores. We felt deflated and put in one last effort to secure three points but had to settle with a draw. On the balance of play there is no denying that Macroom have a number of talented players and they are a strong effective team but this also reflects well on this Midleton U16A team have achieved this season as we proved that we were capable of competing with the best in our division. Two games remaining in the league and we will continue to aim for maximum points. Well done team.

League at home to Castleview on Friday 12th April 2013 Midleton 4 Castleview 2 Castleview were welcomed to Midleton with ideal conditions setting the scene for this league fixture. Having lost our earlier contest against this tenacious Cork city team we had to prove to ourselves that we had learned from defeat. We were acutely aware of where to expect the main threat and our team was set out accordingly. From the kickoff we controlled the center of the park and played with confidence and composure with Max O'Neill leading by example. The role of attacking midfielder was given to Cormac Beausang and at first he found this position a challenge but as the minutes passed and with opportunities presented, he began to find his rhythm. On fifteen minutes he demonstrated superb individual skill by working his way into the eighteen yard area to drill home an unstoppable strike putting Midleton one up. With belief and courage the team continued to play with authority and on twenty two minutes Kevin O'Hanlon was in the right place at the right moment to double our lead. The few chances that came the visitors way were easily collected by Joe who has played a huge role in the team this season. Just before half time an innocuous challenge in our area resulted in a penalty kick that was slotted home allowing Castleview back into the game. Half time score Midleton 2-1 up.

Within minutes after the restart a free kick was conceded inside our half and this was lofted high into the evening sun dropping under the bar to score Castleview's second of the game. This goal rocked our confidence and for a moment we were fearing the worst but we stuck to the game plan and kept our heads. A real situation of concern occurred when Joe bravely went to collect with Castleview attacking but the resulting collision left our keeper injured and had to be replaced. Tadgh Gilroy stepped forward to assume Joes role and responsibility with Pa Horgan & Finnian Murphy re-positioned to shore up our defense allowing Cian McNerney to be introduced as left winger. The focus of the team now switched to winning the game having dominated the play from the start, and Cian s fresh legs began to present opportunities with the visitors under pressure. With ten minutes remaining Shane Murphy finally got his reward for the work rate he contributed in the game when Cormac delivered a perfect cross for Shane to calmly slot home. Midleton now three two ahead and still attacking and determined to finish the game off. Two minutes from full time Shane scored his second resulting from a poor clearance in the visitors penalty area securing the victory for Midleton, a result that was earned and deserved. Cian Savage has played a very positive role in the team and again today he impressed along with the consistent Max O'Neill and man of the match Cormac Beausang. We wish Joe a speedy recovery and express gratitude to Luke Finnerty & Jack Farmer for assisting Joe at the time of his injury. Three games remaining for us now in the league and lets try to secure maximum points. Well done team.

League away to Macroom on Saturday 9th March 2013 Macroom 8 Midleton 5 This league game against league leaders Macroom displayed our strength and our weakness over eighty minutes and unfortunately we left empty handed from a game we had initially dominated. We started with determination and produced terrific individual skill controlling the game with confidence, putting the opposition under immediate pressure. Within five minutes Jack Farmer got into a great position and delivered a text book cross for Shane Murphy to finish perfectly netting the first goal of the day. Three minutes later Shane doubled his tally with a strike from distance with Macroom stagnant in defense. Goal number three was a bizarre moment when we went to clear a long ball over our defense but the miss-kick looped high and ended up an own goal despite Joe's best efforts to prevent it. On twelve minutes we regained our two goal advantage with a free kick from Jack that was scored by Pa Horgan. We relaxed a little letting Macroom back into the game when a corner kick resulted in Macroom scoring when we failed to clear decisively. Two minutes later Jack Farmer lifted the team again when he scored a superb individual effort and then followed up with another three minutes later. Thirty minutes gone and we were in control, Midleton 5-2 ahead. Macroom were not giving up and they score again before half time. Having experienced a similar situation in our previous league game against Castleview we were determined not to let a repeat of this happen again. Easier said than done.

Macroom started to get opportunities in the second half when slippery conditions and poor defending allowed Macroom to score first giving them the confidence that we were now lacking. From the tip-off a poor back pass put Macroom through on goal to score the equalizer and this lapse in concentration punished us cruelly ,deflated the whole team with Macroom now in the ascendancy. It remained equal for the next fifteen minutes but then the drama unfolded when we conceded a penalty kick from a foul in the area and despite Joe guessing the correct side it ended up in the back of the net putting Macroom ahead for the first time in the game. Tadgh Gilroy and Cian Mc Nerney were introduced to freshen up tired legs but on seventy two minutes Macroom gained a two goal advantage and the thought of defeat by now was palpable. Just as the final whistle was about to blow the thirteenth goal of the contest was scored by Macroom but at this point we had conceded defeat. Absolutely, we are very disappointed to come away from a game with nothing but defeat but the standard of football that Midleton demonstrated in the first half was really encouraging and indicates positive progression but now our attention switches to addressing our weaknesses. As a coach I am very proud of these boys and the commitment they have given to their team and their club and we will continue to work hard to improve on our results. Conor O Sullivan from the U15A squad impressed today along with Cian Savage & Aaron Hennessy and whether its a victory or a defeat , tomorrow is another day ,and another opportunity.

Local Cup away to Carrigaline United on Sunday 10th Febraury 2013 Carrigaline United 4 Midleton 0 The initial indications for this game would suggest a one sided contest with the premier division Carrigaline United side against the second division Midleton A team in this Local Cup fixture but in fact for the first twenty minutes of the game more goal scoring opportunities were in Midletons favour. The turning point of the game came about when our central defender Cian Savage was replaced due to injury and Carrigaline earned a corner kick which we failed to clear as they headed home easily scoring the opening goal of the game. Ten minutes later a second goal was conceded as some players struggled to compete against the premier division opposition but on a positive note others were certainly competing equally at this level.

The second half of the game saw Carrigaline stamp their authority on proceedings as they sealed the victory scoring two more goals and progressed to the next round of the local cup. Once again Jack Farmer impressed and acknowledging Shane Murphy, Kevin O'Hanlon and Cian McNerney for their hard working efforts in the game. Despite defeat there is a very positive attitude in the team and our focus now switches to the League and the U16 John Cooke Cup so there is still plenty of opportunity ahead.

League at home to Kinsale on Saturday 12th January 2013 Midleton 2 Kinsale 1 This was our first game of the new year as league leaders, Kinsale were welcomed to Knockgriffin. From the start Kinsale were full of confidence and they were first to score when their center forward struck from eighteen yards putting Kinsale one up with just eight minutes played. After our previous two defeats, this start was certainly far from ideal but this Midleton side were determined to get back into the game. With persistent pressure by Jack Farmer opportunities were coming our way and eventually with twenty minutes played we were rewarded when Pa Horgan drilled a low shot past the keeper to even up proceedings. Our four defenders consisting of Kevin O Hanlon, Cian Savage, Cormac Beausang and new signing John Ogunjemilusi displayed terrific ability combining courage and composure with solid performances as half time approached.

The second half started with our central midfielders, Aaron Hennessy & Finnian Murphy working tirelessly chasing down every ball and once again Cormac and Cian were outstanding at the back leaving Joe to collect easily. But the talented Jack Farmer decided the outcome of this contest with an unstoppable strike on sixty five minutes putting Midleton ahead after excellent build-up play by Shane Murphy. Tadgh Gilroy was introduced late in the game as the contest finished with Midleton deserving this victory. Max O Neill was awarded the role of captain for the remainder of this season and his performance again today justified this decision. The result today will certainly boost the confidence of the team, so let our ambition be, to maintain this progress. Well done one and all.

National Cup away to Everton on Sunday 2nd December 2012 Everton 7 Midleton 0 The scoreline suggests a one sided contest in this National Cup fixture and in truth Everton possessed a number of really talented players that determined the outcome of this game. We anticipated a tough physical contest and this influenced our team selection. From the kickoff the playing conditions were far from ideal and early exchanges were evenly balanced with Joe Wyer being tested early and then at the other end a determined solo effort by Finnian Murphy, when he worked his way into the box and slotted the ball past the Everton keeper only to be denied the opening goal by the upright. This initially gave us a glimmer of confidence but it wasn't long before the Everton center forward displayed his talent when he netted a powerful strike from eighteen yards. Everton dominated the game from then on scoring three more goals before half time and netted another trio in the second half.

Playing competitive games on a weekly basis in Division one undoubtedly improves a team’s all-round fitness and performance levels and these factors gave Everton a huge advantage in preparation for this game. The result doesn't give an account of how well this Midleton team played with Max O'Neill and Jack Farmer both hitting the crossbar and the back four consisting of Aldas Venckus, Luke Finnerty, Cormac Beausang and Liam Cotter displaying enormous potential. Aaron Hennessy captained the Midleton side today and gave leadership throughout the game even when victory was truly conceded. Kevin O'Hanlon made a positive contribution to proceedings when he was introduced in the second half, and overall the experience of playing this National Cup game will certainly benefit each and every one of the team. We wish all those involved with Everton’s under 16 team well as they deservedly progress to the next round of the National Cup.

League away to Buttervant on Saturday 17th November 2012 Buttervant 5 Midleton 0 Sometimes the result says a lot about how a game went but this match serves a reminder to us of the standard of football that is required in order to compete at this level. Buttervant was the venue and from the kickoff we were under pressure with our weaknesses exposed early. Ten minutes into the game we went behind when a lofted cross was difficult to reach leaving an unmarked Buttervant striker with an easy tap-in. Almost immediately from the tip off we were caught in possession, leaving our keeper exposed and subsequently punished putting us further behind. We did create attacking opportunities but we were failed to maximize our chances. On twenty five minutes two became three deflating us as our undefeated run of games was slipping away. We did not give up, but the writing was on the wall when on the stroke of half time Eoghan Collins's shot on goal beat the keeper but unfortunately, also beat the referee, when it rebounded out from behind the goal line at speed, as play continued , despite our protest. These things rarely happen but today was one of those days and Eoghan will get his chance again.

The second half had us competing well with a solid display from Aaron Hennessy (only recently back from injury) , and Kevin O'Hanlon putting in an outstanding performance but we conceded two more goals and the game to Buttervant who were the better team on the day. Results don't go your way always but there is a good positive attitude in this team and if you learn from defeat, you haven't really lost.

League at home to Passage United on Saturday 3rd November 2012 Midleton 3 Passage United 3 Passage United were welcomed to Knockgriffin for this fixture on a frosty morning and from the start we seem to be a little lethargic as the visitors kicked off with a bit more spark than us. For the first time this season we went behind from a well taken goal after five minutes and it then seemed to dawn on us that the game had started. Our response was immediate though when Jack Farmer was sent through attacking the Passage defense and delivered a perfect cross for today's Captain Shane Murphy to volley home from close range. The second goal for Midleton came on eighteen minutes when Jack was in a similar situation but this time he took the opportunity himself and scored a fantastic goal putting Midleton 2-1 up. Passage United were competing well and threatened occasionally but we failed to assert our dominance despite having the lion's share of the possession. Max O Neill worked tirelessly and Kevin O Hanlon played with composure and intelligent use of the ball under pressure as half time came with Midleton only just ahead.

The visitors had the advantage of the wind for the second half and began to opt for the long ball putting our defense under pressure but we cleared our lines well with Aldas Venckus resilient and decisive. Twenty minutes passed and Pa Horgan got his deserved reward for battling hard for the ball and slotting home Midletons third. Passage continued to press and five minutes later a scramble in the Midleton goal mouth area saw Passage pull a goal back. Within minutes we thought we had sealed the contest as Max beat the on-rushing Passage keeper to the ball for Shane to score but a free kick resulted with the brave Passage United goal keeper down injured. As the final whistle was about to blow one final long ball too many gifted the visitors the equalizing goal when we failed to clear the danger. It seemed like a defeat having dominated for long periods of the game but Passage United earned this result for their never say die attitude. We played well at times today and there is an improvement in our game, so let\'s keep it going . Well Done Lads.

National Cup at home to Park United on Sunday 21st October 2012 Midleton 3 Park United 0 Weather conditions could not have been better for the time of year as Midleton welcomed the giant killers, Park United to Knockgriffin having defeated the Premier league team, Carrigaline United in the previous round of the National Cup. A few changes were made to the starting eleven with Aaron Hennessy & Cian Savage sidelined due to injuries but the return of Luke Finnerty gave a terrific boost of confidence to the team today. From the kickoff both teams were energetic and competing equally keeping the center of the park busy but without clear cut chances on goal. As time passed we settled and began to dominate with the industrious pair of (Captain) Jack Farmer & Cian McNerney constantly pressing forward at one end ,with Luke Finnerty and Eoghan Collins impenetrable at the back. Patience was all that was required and two minutes before half time we were rewarded when a peach of a cross from Max O Neill placed the ball at Cian McNerney's feet for him to put Midleton one up.

The second half saw Aldas Venckus introduced replacing Alan O leary and play continued in a similar competitive fashion as the first half and with only two minutes passed a free kick from twenty five yards by Jack Farmer was delivered perfectly finding its way beyond the Park United goalkeeper putting Midleton two up. Kevin O Hanlon replaced Cian McNerney minutes later as we pushed to build on our advantage. The third goal was dispatched with five minutes left to play when Jack put Shane Murphy through to get on the score sheet . Pa Horgan was also determined to continue his scoring streak and his opportunity came just before the final whistle when he was fouled in the box and the penalty was awarded. Ninety nine times out of one hundred this penalty would be a certain goal but ... Pa will get plenty of chances again. Full time whistle, Midleton a 3 - 0 Park United. The whole team performance earned this victory. This was a good result today as we progress to the next round of the National Cup but we are also apprehensive knowing tougher challenges lie ahead. Well done today one and all! Man of the Match was awarded to Luke Finnerty for his solid performance as a defensive anchor in the team today.

League at home to Fermoy on Sunday 7th October 2012 Midleton 4 Fermoy 3 Our first league home game of the season against a really good Fermoy team. Last season our best result against Fermoy was a scoreless draw so we anticipated a competitive contest today. We started sprightly with plenty of confidence and had the visitors rattled when on five minutes Eoghan Collins picks out Jack Farmer running in behind the Fermoy defense and with a fantastic display of individual skill, he volleys the ball past the helpless keeper for the first goal of the day. Our midfield trio of Max O'Neill, Aaron Hennessy & Shane Murphy are working extremely effectively with intelligent use of the ball and twenty minutes in Jack sets up Patrick Horgan to strike a powerful shot into the Fermoy net, Midleton 2 up. Five minutes later Fermoy defense misjudge the bounce of the ball allowing Jack through to punish netting his second. Fermoy dig deep and score just before half time, Midleton 3 Fermoy 1.

The second half started with both teams competing well but on seventy five minutes Pa Horgan scores again beating the keeper to the ball heading in for Midletons' fourth. The injured Aaron Hennessy is replaced by Alan O Leary and Conor Tynan was given his opportunity to be involved replacing Aldas Venckus. Fermoy score two more goals when fatigue set in but we closed off the game to secure all three points against tough opposition. Final Score Midleton A 4, Fermoy 3. Man of the Match today was awarded to Jack Farmer for his overall contribution helping the team achieve this great result today. Well done one and all !

National Cup at home to Ballincollig A on Sunday 30th Septmber 2012 Midleton 8 Ballincollig A2 With incessant rain setting the scene for this fixture the conditions were not to influence the outcome of this game. We set out with a strong solid defense utilizing individual strengths to maximum potential. Joseph Wyer's experience is pivotal in goal with Finnian Murphy, Eoghan Collins, Tadgh Gilroy & Aldas Venckus completing the defense. Aaron Hennessy, Shane Murphy and Max O'Neill controlled the midfield with Pa Horgan menacing up front with Kevin O Hanlon & Jack Farmer tireless on the wings.

From the outset Ballincollig were under pressure and on 15mins a shot in a crowded penalty area was deflected past the keeper putting Midleton ahead. This goal settled the team and a fine effort from Jack just grazing the crossbar with the visitors continuously being penned back. Twenty minutes into the game, an unnamed striker was gifted an opportunity only to send the ball skywards with the goal at his mercy but the real talking point of the game was to follow two minutes later. A thirty five yard free kick from Max O'Neill was dispatched with unstoppable accuracy into the top corner of the net a goal worthy of the premiership. Minutes later resulting from a third consecutive corner Max connects perfectly heading in Midletons' third. The contribution from the wingers Kevin & Jack was excellent and on thirty two minutes Shane Murphy gets on the score sheet slotting home a cross from Jack. This pattern continued and a similar effort puts Max through to score his hat-trick Midletons' fifth before half time.

Alan O Leary and Cian McNerney were introduced for the second half replacing Finnian & Kevin and five minutes after the restart Pa Horgan scores a great goal under pressure deflating the visitors. Ten minutes later playing with the wind Ballincollig score from a corner,as a moment of indecision gets punished.Thomas Desmond replaced Aldas Venckus and freshens up the defense as Ballincollig opt for the long ball but to no avail with Joe Wyer collecting effortlessly. Pa Horgan nets his second of the day with fifteen minutes left to play Midleton 7-1 up. An accidental hand ball concedes a penalty and despite Joe guessing the correct side Ballincollig score . Before the final whistle there was just time for Jack Farmer to be rewarded with an excellent finish ending the game with an emphatic win. The presence of the injured Cian Savage was appreciated and not forgetting Jack Enright who documented the events of the day. Man of the Match was Max O'Neill who also captained the side today and lead by example. Congratulations one and all!

League away to Kinsale on Saturday 15th Septmber 2012 Kinsale 0 Midleton 1 The first game of the soccer season was a test of our preparation for the 2012/13 campaign. It has to noted that twelve players were available to travel to this fixture and nothing but praise is deserved equally to each one of them. Appointed captain for this game was Joseph Wyer in goal and his role was absolutely outstanding from start to finish. Across the back, newcomer Alan O'Leary teamed up well with the solid central pairing of Eoghan Collins and Tadgh Gilroy with Finnian Murphy completing the defense. The midfield featured Aaron Hennessy and Jack Farmer with Aldas Venckus and Cian McNerney on the wings. Shane Murphy and Patrick Horgan lead the attack. From the kickoff Kinsale looked like a good competitive side but we played effectively and reduced their efforts to occasional shots from distance. It was obvious after fifteen minutes Jack Farmer was struggling with an injury and was unable to continue and Thomas Desmond was introduced switching positions with Finnian Murphy who moved to midfield. Kinsale were controlling the center of the park but that was quickly cancelled out and we began to get opportunities with Shane and Pa testing the kinsale keeper. Half time came with both teams evenly matched.

We felt confident that we could get something out of the game as Kinsale looked vulnerable in defense and on 20 mins into the second half Patrick Horgan was to seal the contest with a decisive goal. This rocked the home team but they didn't give up and they also had a few chances as they tried to push for an equalizer. By full time though Midleton had kept a clean sheet securing all three points and a very positive start to the season. Joseph Wyer was awarded "Man of the Match" but every player worked hard today with praise earned and deserved. Well done one and all.

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